2022 Saint Damien Gigondas Les Souteyrades Organic, Rhone Valley

A gorgeous wine in the vintage, the 2022 Gigondas Les Souteyrades checks in as 80% Grenache and 20% Mourvèdre that saw a lengthy maceration and will spend over a year in foudre. It's a ripe, powerful Gigondas with medium to full-bodied richness, notes of ripe strawberries, black raspberries, exotic spice, and flowers, a terrific sense of freshness and purity, fine tannins, and a great finish. Readers should snatch up this sensational 2022.

A domaine located on the lower plains of Gigondas, Domaine Saint-Damien releases four Gigondas, their Vieilles Vignes, which is a blend of the single vintage, two single vineyards, the Les Souteyrade and La Louisiane, and lastly and most recently, the Clovis Saurel. All the wines are largely Grenache and destemmed, and aside from the Clovis Saurel, which is aged in demi-muids, are brought up in foudre and tank. These are brilliant, layered, textured Gigondas that represent insane values.

94-96 points jebdunnuck.com

Saint Damien Gigondas Les Souteyrades Organic from the Rhône Valley is a robust and expressive wine that reflects the unique terroir and traditional winemaking practices of this famed region. Produced by Domaine Saint Damien, a family-run estate dedicated to organic viticulture, Les Souteyrades is a blend primarily of Grenache, supported by Mourvèdre, from old vines grown in the limestone-rich soils of Gigondas. This wine embodies both the intensity and elegance that Rhône reds are known for.

On the nose, Les Souteyrades reveals complex aromas of blackberries, ripe plums, and dark cherries, mingled with notes of dried herbs, licorice, and a hint of black pepper. Earthy undertones, combined with a subtle smokiness from oak aging, add further depth. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and velvety, with flavors of dark fruit, spice, and a touch of savory olive tapenade. Fine tannins and vibrant acidity provide structure, leading to a long, layered finish with lingering notes of spice and garrigue.

This organic Gigondas pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as roasted lamb, beef stew, grilled meats, and aged cheeses. It’s also a wine that can be cellared, allowing it to develop further complexity with time.